Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 24: The Union government is set to implement a safety assessment rating system for trucks and commercial vehicles, akin to the Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP) for passenger cars, according to Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari.

This initiative aims to boost safety standards and improve the build quality of heavy vehicles, encouraging manufacturers to enhance vehicle safety.
The minister also revealed that a similar system for battery-operated e-rickshaws, which often face safety issues, is under consideration. "Improving e-rickshaw safety will benefit users and create more jobs," Gadkari noted.

Gadkari highlighted that India faces the highest number of fatal road accidents globally, with around 1.8 lakh fatalities annually. Therefore, vehicle safety, safer highways, and the promotion of electric vehicles are key priorities for the government.

Addressing driver fatigue, Gadkari shared that the ministry is working on regulations to limit truck drivers’ working hours and improve conditions. The government is also planning to establish 32 state-of-the-art driving institutes across India to address the truck driver shortage.

Additionally, air conditioning in truck driver cabins is now mandatory, and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) will be required in commercial vehicles to enhance road safety.